Monday, January 21, 2008

Severe Naija Jams

Soundway's latest release is one hell of a compilation. Not only does it raise the bar once more but it also reaches parts that others can't satisfy. Lovingly put-together from the Nigerian record digging exploits of label boss Miles Cleret this set of tunes is subtitled "Modern Highlife, Afro-sounds and Nigerian Blues, 1970-1976". When word was out late last year that Miles had this release ready I sent the tracklist over to my constant source of all things 70s Nigeria Comb & Razor. His response: "Damn. That is a seriously hardcore compilation, man! February can't get here fast enough! Much props to Miles and the crew!"

Listening to the tunes first time round threw me and led me to think about the organising principle - so many tracks and some quite different styles. Then when I listened again and again it was the accent on the blues that kept coming through. Its a rewarding release that grows and grows. Highly recommended.

Heres the Soundway spin:"Nigeria 1970. Highlife, Afro-beat, Rock, Jazz & Native Blues rub shoulders and are turned out at an unprecedented level. New styles meet old styles. Newfound national confidence follows the near break-up of the nation following the Biafran war. New fashions meet old fashions, creating new fusions. Soundway present 26 original and previously un-reissued tracks from the time in a lavish double CD package, complete with 36 page booklet featuring extensive liner notes, rare photos and cover art."

And thats not all folks. There's more to come in 2008:Nigeria Disco Funk Special : The Sound of the Underground Lagos Dancefloor.Nigeria Rock Special: Psychedlic Afro Rock and Fuzz Funk in 1970s Nigeria.